The Charming Town Of South Haven, Michigan is Picture-Perfect For A Weekend Getaway
By Rachel Pfutzenreuter|Published July 16, 2021
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Rachel Pfutzenreuter
Author
Rachel lives just north of Chicago, she has two boys and a dog named Sky. She is always planning her next trip, and loves to help friends, family, and her readers find their next adventure.
Are you dreaming of a weekend trip? South Haven, Michigan, a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Michigan, may be perfect for your getaway. Quaint shops and beaches, and plenty of attractions, will provide you with just the right amount of entertainment. You’ll know you have arrived when the South Haven Lighthouse comes into view.
The charming town of South Haven has a population of just over 4,000 people.
South Haven is located only a couple of hours from Chicago in southwestern Michigan. Rent kayaks, paddleboards, jet skis, or a boat to get out and enjoy Lake Michigan. North Beach, a favorite swimming beach in South Haven, offers rentals right on the shore.
The bright red lighthouse will catch your eye first, an inviting starting point in South Haven.
Standing at the entrance to the Snake River, it was a beacon of light back in 1872. The lighthouse continues to be functional today. Walk out on the pier to get up close, while admiring the boats in the harbor.
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Stroll through town for a bit of window shopping, then step inside to browse the delightful stores.
Enjoy the view from one of the local eateries. Rent bikes or scooters to cruise around town. Explore the Kal Haven trail that extends from Kalamazoo to South Haven, good for bikes or hikes.
The state park offers both a beach and a campground. If you are in the mood for a hike, the Van Buren State Park Spur Trail is a scenic 4-mile paved trail leading from the state park to downtown South Haven.
Venture out to one of the farms or orchards to pick your own blueberries, peaches, cherries, or apples.
Michigan produces approximately 100 million pounds of blueberries a year, one of the top-producing states in the country. To sample some of the local libations, include a visit to one of the wineries in town.
Stop by the Michigan Maritime Museum in South Haven to peruse some of the exhibits, or to make a reservation for a ride on one of the historic boats.
The Lindy Lou is one of the museum's boats, and it aims to take you back in time to the early 1900s on a trip down the Snake River. You can also rent paddleboards or kayaks on the Snake River.
Are you ready to book your weekend getaway now? Learn more about the charming town of South Haven at the South Haven/Van Buren County Convention & Visitors Bureau website, or visit the South Haven Facebook page. Pure Michigan!
Have you visited South Haven? Share your thoughts with us!
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